Dogs are susceptible to a variety of worms and microscopic parasites. Some of the most common intestinal worms include roundworms, tapeworms, whipworms, and hookworms. Other parasites include fleas and ticks. What is particularly frightening about these parasites is the fact that many can be transferred to humans, so you definitely want to take the right steps towards eliminating them promptly.

Conventional Treatments and the Problems Associated with Them

If your conventional veterinarian diagnoses your dog with any type of parasite, he or she will likely prescribe a strong anti-parasitic remedy. However, these often come with a variety of undesirable side effects that can occur right away or years after exposure. Therefore, holistic veterinarians focus on building up your pet's overall health– through nutrition, supplements, and by avoiding excessive vaccinations–in order to create a body that is unattractive to parasites. In this way, excessive worm burdens can be prevented and your pet will remain healthy.

In the event that your pet already has a parasitic burden, though, holistic vets have a variety of natural remedies at their disposal as well.  

Some of the Many Natural Anti-Parasitic Remedies

Wormwood is one of the most popular herbal remedies for getting rid of roundworms, tapeworms, pinworms, and threadworms that may infect the intestinal tract of your dog.

It contains sesquiterpene lactones, isothujone, and thujone, which are known for effectively weakening and killing parasites. When it comes to using wormwood, however, you should work with a holistic veterinarian who knows the right amount to use for your particular pet. For quick intervention, this is a great choice, but it shouldn't be used long-term.

Male fern rhizome can provide dramatic effects when it comes to eliminating parasites from your furry friend. It contains filicin and filmarone, which are known for cleansing the body and making the digestive tract stronger and, thus, inhospitable to parasites. It makes worms immobile and prevents them from reproducing so that your pet can eliminate them naturally. 

Black walnut can be used to treat heartworm, pinworms, tapeworms, and ringworm. This is yet another very powerful natural dewormer, though, so it is best used under the guidance of a holistic veterinarian. 

Blackseed oil is also used to destroy and expel intestinal worms gently yet effectively.

Sage leaf can be used in order to eliminate ringworm. It also contains thujone, which is known for its ability to kill parasites.

Fennel seed can be used as a rinse for the skin and coat, as it will effectively repel fleas. And by repelling fleas, you can prevent your pet from swallowing them and becoming infected with tapeworms. 

Papaya leaves contain enzymes that are able to eat away at tapeworms so that you can effectively eliminate them without chemicals.

Final Thoughts

If your dog is suffering with any type of parasite or worm, talk to your holistic veterinarian who can prescribe the right natural remedy that will effectively eliminate the parasites without causing adverse side effects that are common with chemical-based dewormers.